meet our coach, stephanie

I am a seasoned teacher with 23 years of experience, including 20 in Kindergarten, and bring a wealth of knowledge and empathy to our approach. I have a Master's degree in both Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education, plus 30 additional graduate-level hours in areas such as autism, special education, and reading.  I am also LETRS trained (Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling), and taught special education for 1 year.  I am in the process of obtaining Early Childhood LETRS training, level 1 dyslexia training, and will soon embark on EBLI training (Evidence Based Literacy Instruction). 

As a long-time public educator with a passion for teaching reading, I have been challenged with "fitting it all in" and reaching every child in my classroom.  While I have many systems in place, the reality is with growing class sizes and less interventionist support, it is difficult to reach every child every day.  I am also experiencing this as a parent.  My son was diagnosed with autism at age 2, and reading comprehension and writing are his biggest struggles.  As a parent of a child on the autism spectrum who struggles with reading, I understand the challenges faced by both students and parents.  This is why I founded Reading Roots Academy...to give YOUR child the very best literacy instruction in a 1:1 setting, and to tailor instruction to EXACTLY what your child needs.  

I am here to empower your child and make learning a joyful adventure. I am dedicated to nurturing young minds and fostering a love for growth and discovery.  At the heart of my approach are values that resonate with every parent: empathy, encouragement, and a deep commitment to your child's well-being and success. 

I create a warm and welcoming environment where children feel safe to explore, learn, and grow. 

I prioritize building relationships based on knowledge, trustworthiness, authenticity, and genuine care. My commitment to your child's development extends beyond mere instruction; it encompasses fostering an environment where growth flourishes, and every achievement is celebrated.  As a parent, I know the importance of relatability and trust when it comes to those who influence our children. I build meaningful connections with my students, earning their trust and respect.

When working with me, you will see my sense of humor, humility, loyalty, diligence, integrity, organizational prowess, and unwavering compassion shine through. These attributes form the cornerstone of my approach, ensuring that every interaction is meaningful and every lesson impactful.

My commitment extends beyond academic proficiency; I strive to cultivate a sense of independence and self-reliance in every student. Through personalized attention and tailored strategies, I empower students to navigate their educational pursuits with confidence and grace.